Mato Grosso do Sul updates dam failure risk assessment rules

The Environmental Institute of Mato Grosso do Sul (Imasul) has updated its regulations for assessing the potential damage caused by dam failures. The new criteria move beyond simple reservoir size to include more specific factors.

Evaluations will now consider the presence of residents in affected areas, potential environmental damage, and consequences for social and economic activities. For reservoirs up to 20,000 cubic meters, the classification starts as low potential damage. However, the presence of people, significant companies, or protected areas can elevate the risk category for structures between 20,000 and 100,000 cubic meters.

For structures exceeding 100,000 cubic meters, technicians will analyze the specific conditions of the areas at risk. Reservoirs with a capacity of at least 1 million cubic meters will also require studies to determine the potential extent of flooding. These classifications will dictate safety obligations, including inspection requirements and the necessity of Emergency Action Plans. This change aligns state rules with the 2024 national standards set by the National Council of Water Resources.